FAQ - Opresnik Business School (OBS)

Answers to your MBA questions (FAQ)

General information about the MBA program

What is an MBA?

The “Master of Business Administration” is probably the most well-known degree from the master's family and originated in the USA. An MBA has long been the most popular degree among master's degrees. The title “MBA” has become more and more widespread over time and is now recognized as a degree worldwide. An MBA combines practice and work with theoretical knowledge.

What is the difference between an MBA and a Master's program?

In contrast to the consecutive master's degree (as a continuation of a previously completed bachelor's degree), the MBA is a non-consecutive form of study. This means that the MBA does not continue education in the subject of the completed main course, but rather provides additional qualifications for (prospective) managers in general management programs. MBA programs usually focus on “best practice approaches” and are less science-oriented than traditional (master's) courses.

Is the MBA title recognized in Germany and globally?

Since the Master of Business Administration (MBA) title is awarded by state and accredited English partner universities, it is recognized globally.

Degree and career prospects

What career opportunities does the MBA offer me?

An MBA degree significantly improves your career prospects. Graduates of our program find positions in:

General Management & Corporate Governance
Marketing & Strategic Management
Human Resources & Staff Development
Sales & distribution
Startups & business creation

Will I get a higher salary with an MBA title?

An MBA does not automatically result in a higher salary, but it usually improves career opportunities and the negotiating position for a salary increase. The “return of investment” (ROI) depends on the current market situation. In any case, however, a general improvement in the professional situation will be achieved and, in addition, personal career horizons will be broadened. You are therefore definitely on the winning side.

What is the average failure rate?

So far, all students have successfully completed the program!

On the one hand, this is due to the practice-oriented, application-oriented examination structure, which does not include classic exams, but reflection reports and a master's thesis. On the other hand, our MBA program is characterized by a highly motivated and committed student body who has a strong commitment and is closely supervised from the start. Through intensive coaching and individual support during their studies, we ensure that all participants are prepared in the best possible way and can successfully complete their studies.

Study process and content

Can I also complete an MBA degree parallel to my job?

Yes, our 8-month MBA program is completely online and consists of 8 modules, the transfer of knowledge in the form of webinars, which are all recorded so that they can also be used afterwards to rework or acquire knowledge. The webinars are also transcribed live so that all content is very easy to understand even later on.

How can fast-track study be equivalent to a format over a longer period of time?

The eight-month format is efficiently structured and focuses on practical and strategic content that ensures the greatest possible learning success in the shortest possible time. The content is of the highest academic level and the degree is internationally recognized.

How long does it take to get an MBA degree?

The entire course consists of two phases of four months each. In the first phase, knowledge is transferred in the form of webinars over a period of 4 months. You will then write your master's thesis at one of our partner universities. A further four months are earmarked for this, so that the degree can be completed in around eight months.

What does a typical study process look like?

The course is flexible, but it follows a clear process:

Phase 1 (4 months): Processing of the 8 modules, each with a “Reflective Thinking Report”.
Phase 2 (4 months): Master's thesis at one of our partner universities.
Webinars & online seminars: Interactive sessions with experts.
Self-study: Flexible time management for independent learning phases.

Are there any phases of presence?

No, the course takes place entirely online. All tests are submitted in writing so that no on-site presence is required.

How flexible is my degree if I am very busy professionally or privately?

The MBA program was developed specifically for working professionals:

Asynchronous learning content: All webinars are recorded and can be viewed at any time.
Self-determined time management: Ideal for managers who want to continue their education flexibly.
No fixed examination times: All exams are written papers that you can complete at your own pace.

Will I have a contact person available during my studies?

Yes, Prof. Marc Opresnik himself is both a content co-designer and module manager and accompanies students throughout the entire process. The “all-in-one” approach ensures close support — from advice and enrollment to onboarding and coaching during your studies.

What is the general webinar schedule?

The MBA program includes regular webinars, each dedicated to a specific module.
The webinars usually follow the following procedure:

Duration: Each module is spread over several weeks with several webinars per week.
Times: Live sessions typically take place Monday to Thursday between 16:15 and 20:15.
Content: In the webinars, concepts from the modules are deepened and applied in a practical way.
Lecturers: The sessions are led by experienced professors and industry experts.
All webinars are recorded so you can watch them anytime. Attendance at the live sessions is not mandatory.
The recordings are available on the learning platform so that they can be retrieved flexibly according to your own schedule.

I value presence. Why can the online MBA still be right for me?

The MBA is 100% online but flexible and practical, ideal for working professionals. There is an optional one-week executive leadership program at top universities such as Oxford or Copenhagen Business School. On request, a module can be taken in person to promote exchange and networking — individual coordination is possible.

Admission and application

How can I apply?

All information about applying can be found in our MBA study brochure. If you do not have them yet, please request them here on.

What are the admission requirements?

The admission requirements are usually a completed bachelor's degree. With extensive professional experience, admission is also possible without a degree or, in exceptional cases, even without a high school diploma.

I don't have a bachelor's degree or high school diploma.
In return, I have received recognized vocational training and have now gained professional experience.
Can I still apply?

Yes! In special cases, access is also possible without a traditional university degree. Professional experience and suitability for the program are decisive.

Which English language skills must be proven?

School English skills are sufficient. An official language certificate such as TOEFL or IELTS is not required.

Do I need a recommendation?

You need two letters of recommendation to apply. These can be work or service references, for example.

Do I need a letter of motivation?

No, a letter of motivation is not required.

Which application documents must be submitted?

To apply, the following documents must be submitted via the following website: Submit your Documents eingereicht werden.

Certificate of the highest academic qualification
Certificate from previous school or university (if applicable)
Language certificate (if available but not mandatory)
Curriculum vitae (CV)
Two letters of recommendation (e.g. work, training or internship certificates)
Passphoto
Copy of passport

These documents are required to check eligibility for the MBA program.

Is there an aptitude test?

No, but every application is reviewed individually.

Dates and start of studies

When can I start my studies?

You can start your studies on the following start dates:

Term I: February 17, 2025
Term II: May 6, 2025
Term III: September 2, 2025
Term IV: November 23, 2025

In addition, we offer tailor-made start dates for companies or organizations with at least 15 participants

Can I complete the MBA program faster or over a longer period of time than in eight months?

The program is designed as a fast-track MBA in 8 months to enable rapid qualification.
However, an extension is possible.

If you need more time, you can flexibly extend your studies over a longer period of time.
A faster completion is not planned, as the modules build on each other.

Can I pause my studies or request an interruption?

It is possible to interrupt your studies under certain conditions. If you have to pause your studies for important reasons (e.g. health or professional obligations), you can request an interruption.

If your studies are interrupted, your enrollment will be retained so that you can continue at a later date.
There may be a prorated payment obligation, depending on the time of the interruption.

For individual solutions, please contact mba@obseducation.org

Course content and exams

What tests and examination types are there?

In the first phase, a “Reflective Thinking Report” with approximately 1,200 words must be written for each of the eight modules. This is not an exam, but includes the application of taught instruments and methods using a practical example. In the second phase, a practice-oriented master's thesis with a volume of around 12,000 words is prepared.

How often can you retake an exam?

The Reflective Thinking Reports must all be passed in order to be approved to write the Master's thesis. These reports may be repeated as often as you like. If you do not do enough, you can repeat your master's thesis once in the first attempt.

What is the completion of the 1st phase?

The first phase consists of 8 modules:
‍
Information Management and Strategic Decision Taking, ManageTeam Performance to Support Strategy, Strategic Direction, Leading a Strategic Management Project, Strategic Planning, Development as a Strategic Manager, Strategic Marketing, and Human Resource Planning.

After evaluating all relevant Reflective Thinking Reports as at least “sufficient”, you will be awarded the “Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership.” This consists of 120 credit points, which corresponds to 60 ECTS.

How many credit points and ECTS does the MBA consist of?

The first phase, which concludes with the “Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership”, consists of 120 credit points or 60 ECTS. The master's thesis then provides a further 60 credit points or 30 ECTS. In total, the MBA program consists of 180 credit points or 90 ECTS credits.

What support do I receive in writing my master's thesis?

The following support services are available to you during the preparation of your Master's thesis:

Personal support: You will receive an academic advisor who will guide you through the entire process.
Webinars & guidelines: There are online seminars and written guidelines on the structure and methodology of the master's thesis.
Feedback & advice: You can discuss your topic with your supervisor and receive regular feedback.

How is the topic for the master's thesis determined?

The topic of the master's thesis can be chosen in consultation with the supervising lecturer and should have a strong practical relevance. For example, it can be based on an internal company project.

Is it necessary to defend the thesis?

No, there is no classic defense. Instead, a practice-oriented master's thesis (approx. 12,000 words) is written, which demonstrates the application of what has been learned in a real business context.

Do I have to work in a company while studying?

No, a company as a practice partner is not required, but it is helpful for an application-oriented master's thesis.

Is there a graduation ceremony?

Yes, graduates have the opportunity to attend a graduation ceremony in England.

Tuition fees and funding

What are the tuition fees?

The regular tuition fee is currently 16,800 EUR (excluding VAT).
Students from E20 countries benefit from a reduced fee of 13,440 EUR (excluding VAT).

When is the tuition fee due?

10% down payment is due 4 weeks before the start of the course. The remaining 90% is due 2 weeks before the start of the course.

Is it possible to pay tuition fees on a monthly basis?

This is being planned but is currently not being offered.

Who can deduct tuition costs for distance learning from tax?

Good news in advance: Many of the tuition costs (e.g. tuition fees, special expenses, or travel expenses) are tax deductible. All students have to do is fill out a tax return and submit it. The ESTG (Income Tax Code) sets these deductible costs and the maximum amounts. All tuition and training costs that you can recover through a tax return can be found here. An important distinction lies in the type of study. There are two different types of studies, the first degree and the second degree. If you start a bachelor's degree immediately after leaving school, this will be considered a first degree. The same applies to initial training. In this situation, tuition fees are only partially deductible. In the case of a second degree or a second degree, full reimbursement of tuition fees is possible. A second degree begins after completing an apprenticeship or a bachelor's degree.

How much can tuition fees be deducted from tax?

The amount of the deduction depends on the degree or training. It is possible to fully deduct tuition fees for a second degree or degree. Other training costs or work equipment can also be deducted. In the case of initial training or studies, reimbursement is only possible in part.

Advertising costs or special expenses: What is behind them?

Whether you have to declare your expenses for distance learning in your tax return as special expenses or advertising costs depends on your career (see above). If you complete your distance learning program as part of initial training, you can claim a maximum of 6,000€ of your tuition costs annually as special expenses. If you are already in your master's degree or starting your bachelor's degree after vocational training, your expenses for your studies are included in the advertising costs. There is no cap for the latter. If you do not work during your distance learning program, you will carry forward the costs and can look forward to a repayment after you start working life.

Can I get a scholarship or financial support for the MBA program?

Yes, we offer various financial support:

Emerging Countries Scholarship: Students from E20 countries (e.g. China, India, Brazil, Nigeria) receive
20% discount on the regular tuition fee.
Special promotions and discounts: There are occasionally promotional offers or business collaborations with financial discounts.
B2B conditions: Companies that register 15 or more students receive special discounts.

For more information, please contact us at mba@obseducation.org

Can I cancel the “Student Enrollment Agreement” and discontinue my studies?

Yes, the “Student Enrollment Agreement” can be withdrawn within 14 days of signing without giving reasons. In this case, all payments (minus the non-refundable deposit) will be refunded. The refund will be made within 28 days of receipt of the cancellation. After this period, there will be no refund of fees already paid. If you drop out after the start of the program, there may also be a pro rata payment obligation of 30% of the total tuition fee.

Which parties do I conclude contracts with?

The contract is concluded exclusively with Opresnik Management Consulting (OMC), represented by Prof. Dr. Marc Oliver Opresnik. This ensures that you are enrolled at the English partner universities.

Since when has Opresnik Business School existed, and why should I choose it as a contract partner?

The Opresnik Business School, founded by Prof. Marc Opresnik, cooperates with leading British universities and pursues the mission of “Building a Better World through Education.” Prof. Opresnik is one of the world's leading experts in marketing management and global co-author of Philip Kotler. His international network and practical approach guarantee first-class education with the best career opportunities.

Sustainability is important to me — what contribution is being made?

The business school donates 1% of tuition fees to the UN initiative “ShareTheMeal” to support people in need. The program is also based on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Accreditation and partner universities

Are the partner universities and study programs accredited?

All courses, including the MBA program, are accredited by the corresponding English institution “The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual)”. The MBA-awarding universities are all state-recognized.

What is the ranking of the partner universities?

According to the latest 2025 Times Higher Education Ranking by the reputable newspaper “The Times” and “The Sunday Times” in the “Business Management and Marketing” category, the “University of CentralLancashire” is in 46th place, the “University of Wolverhampton” in 75th place and the “Anglia Ruskin University” in 94th place. The “University of Wrexham” is even 4th in terms of “teaching quality.” According to “anabin (The information portal on foreign degrees: https://anabin.kmk.org/db/institutionen) with the highest status H+ classified, which the University of Oxford also has.

Can I communicate with an “enrolled person” or “alumni” in advance?

Yes, contacts with alumni or current students can be arranged upon request.

This is what graduates say about the MBA:

“The MBA has enormously developed my leadership and innovation skills. The hands-on content and flexibility were perfect for my job!”
Sascha Baae
Talent scout & executive in a global IT company

“Entering a management program without a high school diploma or bachelor's degree — this MBA has proven that competence is what truly matters! ”
Jan Hesselbarth
Founder & consultant in a global management consultancy

What networking opportunities does the MBA program offer?

The MBA program offers numerous networking opportunities:

Alumni network: You become part of a global network of graduates working in various industries.
Guest lectures & expert talks: Regular webinars with leading experts.
Business collaborations: access to partner companies and potential employers.
Interactive online community: Opportunity to network with other students via exclusive groups and platforms.

Can I freely choose the partner university for the MBA

Yes, you can specify wishes for the partner university and we will do our best to make them possible. However, the final allocation depends on availability and institutional arrangements, meaning that placement at the preferred university cannot be guaranteed.

Technical and organizational requirements

What technical requirements do I need for online studies?

In order to successfully complete the course, you need:

A PC or laptop with the latest operating system (Windows or MacOS).
A stable Internet connection, ideally with a download speed of at least 10 Mbps.
A webcam and microphone for interactive webinars and online meetings.

What equipment and materials do students receive?

Students not only receive comprehensive study materials, but also a Microsoft 365 account with access to Office applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as cloud-based collaboration tools. These tools are particularly helpful for writing Reflective Thinking Reports and Master's thesis. In addition, all course content and recordings of the webinars are available on the learning platform, so that studies can be organized flexibly and efficiently.

Additional offers and customization options

Is there an opportunity for an additional certificate or a specialization within the MBA program?

Yes, we offer co-branding options and custom specializations for companies and groups.

Additional modules: Companies can supplement specific modules.
Adjustment of the diploma title: The name can be tailored to company requirements.
Dual certification: Participants in our Executive Leadership Program also receive a certificate from renowned institutions such as Oxford or Imperial College London.

Executive Leadership Program with Prof. Marc Opresnik: How can I obtain an additional certificate at an elite university?

MBA program students and external managers have the opportunity to participate in the Executive Leadership Program with Prof. Marc Opresnik — a 1-week intensive program at one of the world's leading elite universities.

Program structure:
Duration: 1 week

Locations: The program usually takes place at one of the following renowned universities:

University of Oxford
London Business School
Imperial College London
Copenhagen Business School

Expiration:‍

5 days of lectures & seminars at the selected elite university
Days of intensive workshop with Prof. Opresnik, with practical strategies, leadership methods and individual coaching

Certificates & crediting options:

Elite university certificate: Successful participants receive an official ExecutiveLeadership Certificate from the respective institution.
Opresnik Business School certificate: In addition, a certificate from Prof. Marc Opresnik is awarded, with the option of crediting credit points for the MBA program.
As a result, one of the eight modules of the regular MBA program can be omitted.

Can be booked independently or additively:
‍
This exclusive program can be booked independently of an MBA degree or as additional continuing education. It is aimed at anyone who wants to further develop their leadership skills at the highest academic level.

Special conditions for companies

What conditions and design options are there for companies?

For companies, we offer special conditions and flexible design options:

Co-branding of the level 7 diploma
Price reduction: When registering at least 12 participants
Adjustment of the diploma title.
Individual module adaptation: Specific modules can be integrated in addition to the eight standard modules in order to tailor the program specifically to company-specific requirements.

For further details and individual advice, please contact: mba@obseducation.org

MBA - Master of Business

Administration

in just eight months*

Advance your career as a leader in international business with a part-time Master’s in Business Administration.

*Durchschnittlich dauert ein MBA Studium anderer Anbieter 24 Monate.

Everything you need to know about the MBA program